Richard Simmons’ death did NOT involve foul play insiders insist amid police probe into fitness guru’s final hours

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As a seasoned fitness guru and motivational speaker, I’ve spent decades inspiring and helping people to lead healthier lives. But little did my fans know that behind the public persona, I was battling my own health issues.

There was reportedly no foul play involved in the shock death of fitness guru Richard Simmons.

After discovering Simmons, 76, deceased at his Los Angeles residence on the morning of July 14, authorities initiated an investigation following reports of his fall in the bathroom the previous night.

According to a law enforcement insider, the LAPD is currently treating the investigation as if no foul play was suspected at present.

The Los Angeles Fire Department disclosed on Monday that Simmons’ initial cause of death is under investigation by the police.

It was announced via a statement that Simmons had died of ‘apparent natural causes.’

On the morning of July 13, 2024, at 9:55 AM, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) received a call about a suspected death case situated in the 1300 block of North Belfast Drive. LAFD captain Erik Scott confirmed this information to Entertainment Tonight.

When the rescue ambulance arrived, they found a 76-year-old man who had passed away at the scene, as determined by the firefighters and paramedics. Therefore, it wasn’t necessary to take him to the hospital.

Emergency responders, including police and fire personnel, were summoned to Simmons’ residence in Los Angeles following a phone call placed by the housekeeper.

Simmons was found dead just one day after he celebrated his 76th birthday.

On Monday, police authorities informed PEOPLE that they were conducting a more in-depth investigation into Simmons’ death as the Medical Examiner had postponed the case. This means that additional examinations and tests are required.

An examination may last up to three months before a final decision is made and reported.

According to the report, authorities declared that Simmons had passed away at the scene, and there were no indications of foul play in his death investigation, which would continue to classify it as a natural cause.

As a dedicated follower and member of the Robbery Homicide Division in the LAPD, I was called to the scene when a high-profile individual lost their life. Reports indicated that my team and I were needed due to the prominent nature of the case.

After speaking with the police, the news outlet was informed that Simmons had slipped in his bathroom at home on his 76th birthday, which was on Friday. His housekeeper tried to encourage him to go to the doctor right away.

Simmons refused to go, explaining it was his birthday and he preferred staying home. He mentioned possibly going out on Saturday instead. The housekeeper escorted him back to his room and discovered him lying on the floor at approximately 10 a.m. the next morning.

I was informed by one reliable source that Simmons expressed feeling dizzy before his fall. Another trustworthy confidant shared with me that after the incident, Simmons didn’t exhibit any noticeable or apparent injuries.

It was not immediately clear if the fall and feelings of dizziness were connected to his death.

In an emotional interview with People on the day before his passing, Simmons expressed gratitude for his vast fan base who showed him immense love and support.

At the end of the interview, the fitness expert was informed by the media outlet that he had been “greatly missed” during his absence from public view over the last ten years. They then inquired if he was aware of the deep-rooted affection his fans held for him.

“People seem to miss me, according to what Simmons shared with the media. And the feeling is mutual – I also miss them. Yet, we manage to stay connected via phone calls and emails.”

In his last interview, Simmons shared that he had come into the limelight while keeping his identity hidden from the public.

‘I do leave the house sometimes,’ Simmons said. ‘But I’m in disguise.’

Before his death, Simmons gave an interview for the first time since 2014 – a year when he ceased making public appearances – according to the news outlet’s report.

For more than a decade, as someone deeply invested in the New Orleans celebrity scene and a devoted fan of your fitness industry innovations – from studios to books, weight loss programs, and videos – I’ve been left wondering about your whereabouts. Your absence from public life has fueled widespread rumors regarding your safety and well-being.

According to trusted insiders, the deceased star stepped away from the limelight due to a knee operation he had undergone, as well as his refusal for a subsequent knee surgery.

On Thursdays interview with People, Simmons shared that he experienced a suspicious skin growth which required removal through a medical procedure earlier this year, raising concerns about potential skin cancer.

‘Basal cell carcinoma, it was scary,’ Simmons said of the ailment. ‘But it never came back.’

Simmons shared with the media that his goal was to bring hope and cheer to those facing similar health challenges as him.

“A large number of individuals are diagnosed with cancer, according to Simmons,” he shared. “I reach out to them, I serenade them: ‘You will make it. Just hold on to that faith.'”

In the past few months, Simmons has been working together with composer Patrick Leonard on creating a new musical project.

He shared that he has penned fourteen songs for a Broadway production, adding, “I’m collaborating with an extraordinary individual named Patrick Leonard. You might not be familiar with his name, but he’s composed music for Madonna and Elton John, making him one of the most renowned figures in this field.”

We chat a few times weekly. I pen down the lyrics, while he composes the tunes. Our production encompasses my life story – from peddling pralines in New Orleans as a child at a sweet shop, to my retirement years.

I, as a devoted fan, have observed Simmons making a gradual return to the limelight this year. He’s been engaging with his audience on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. Additionally, he’s been reaching out to us directly through emails.

On Thursdays, he shared with the crowd, “Today is splendidly sunny. However, it’s just another day. I woke up early, offered my prayers, acknowledged my gratitude, and headed to work.”

I’ve been there myself – juggling numerous messages and emails, feeling overwhelmed but determined to help. And you know what? When a message requires immediate attention or is particularly complex, I don’t hesitate to ask for their phone number and give them a call. It’s amazing how much clearer communication becomes when we can speak face-to-face, even if it’s only over the phone. Plus, there’s something incredibly rewarding about resolving an issue or answering a question that leaves both parties feeling satisfied. And let me tell you, I’m loving every moment of it. The sense of accomplishment and connection to others is truly fulfilling. It’s moments like these that remind me why I do what I do – because I care, and I want to make a difference in people’s lives. So, if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and reach out. Who knows? You might just make someone’s day.

On Saturday, his last social media update featured a quote from the 1968 musical comedy “Funny Girl.”

Simmons shared with the media outlet his philosophy behind his discreet engagements with fans, stating that for him, true achievement lies in the count of individuals he has helped and motivated.

After making the decision to retire, Simmons explained, his body had signaled it was time. Since then, he has taken the opportunity to look back on his accomplishments, including all the books he authored and the videos he produced.

‘I never was like, “Oh look what I’ve done.” My thing was, “Oh, look how many people I helped.”‘

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2024-07-19 14:58